3 Reasons Seniors Delay a Senior Living Move … and Why It May Be Time to Reconsider

The most recent AARP Home and Community Preferences Study found that 80% of Americans age 65 and older would like to remain in their current home as they age. This is despite acknowledgement by a majority of respondents that their home may not meet all of their needs as they grow older.

There’s no question that deciding where to live in retirement is one of the most important and often most emotional decisions older adults and their families face. Whether remaining at home, moving to a 55+ active adult community, choosing an independent living community, or considering a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), the choice involves long-term planning for lifestyle, finances, and health.

While many older adults express interest in a CCRC (also known as a life plan community) or other type of retirement community, research shows that a significant number delay making the move. In fact, studies by NORC at the University of Chicago consistently find that older adults often wait until a health event or crisis forces a senior living decision, rather than planning proactively. This delay can limit options, increase stress, and reduce the ability to fully enjoy the benefits retirement communities can offer.

Below are three common reasons seniors delay a senior living move and why taking a second look at a retirement community sooner rather than later may lead to better outcomes in the future.

1. ‘I’m not ready yet’: The emotional pull of the current home

U.S. Census data shows that only about 6% of households headed by someone age 65 or older relocate annually versus 14% of younger households. The primary reason for delaying a move for many of these older adults is that they don’t want to leave a beloved, familiar home.

This statistic aligns with the AARP research on “aging in place,” which shows that most older adults would prefer to remain in their homes as long as possible. However, the emotional appeal of staying put can sometimes overshadow practical realities.

The fact is that most homes in the United States were not designed for aging. In fact, based on Census findings, fewer than half of homes (40%) have even the most basic “aging-ready” features like step-free entryways or first-floor living spaces. Over time, residents of the majority of homes may find that stairs, maintenance, and accessibility challenges can turn their beloved home into a source of stress … or even risk.

There’s also the issue of isolation and loneliness and the negative health consequences of both. Public health researchers note that many residents of CCRCs and other retirement communities chose their senior living location specifically to reduce loneliness and increase social engagement.

It’s important to remember that moving up the timing of a senior living move doesn’t mean giving up your independence. Indeed, studies have demonstrated that it may actually help preserve autonomy. Relocating proactively and earlier allows individuals to choose a community on their own terms, build relationships, and participate in social activities … and even remain engaged if health needs arise down the road.

2. ‘A retirement community is too expensive’: Calculating the true cost

Cost is another major factor that causes people to delay a move to a retirement community, such as a CCRC. Upfront entrance fees (if applicable, which can be in the six- or even seven-figure range) and ongoing monthly service fees of senior living communities can appear high at first glance. However, focusing only on these “on paper” costs can be misleading.

Aging at home also comes with its own significant and often underestimated expenses. These may include:

Property taxes, utilities, and maintenance
Home modifications for accessibility
In-home care services as needs increase
Transportation and other necessary support services

Over time, these costs can add up substantially. In contrast, a retirement community may include some of these costs within residents’ monthly fee. For example, many CCRC contracts bundle the cost of housing, services, amenities, and future healthcare needs into a more predictable financial model. (See “A Primer on CCRC Residency Contracts.”)

More specifically, CCRC contracts typically provide residents with access to a full continuum of care, from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing. This reduces the risk of needing multiple costly (and stressful) moves later on if needs change.

From a financial planning perspective, delaying a move can also limit options. Waiting until health declines may reduce eligibility for certain CCRC contracts or increase their cost, or it may necessitate moving directly into higher-cost levels of care.

This is not to suggest that making the move will be less costly than staying in your own home. It may or may not be, depending on the situation. But the bigger point is that when evaluated holistically, the question may be less about “cost” and more about “value over time,” including peace of mind for both older adults and their loved ones.

3. ‘What if I don’t need care?’: Underestimating future care needs

A third common reason people delay a move to a CCRC or other retirement community is uncertainty about future health needs. Many older adults feel healthy and independent today and understandably question whether they will ever need higher levels of care.

But research shows that around 70% of people who live to age 65 will need long-term care services before they die. Plus, health needs can change gradually … or suddenly. Planning ahead for such unknowns offers you more control and oftentimes better outcomes.

CCRCs are specifically designed to address care uncertainties. They often provide a built-in continuum of care, allowing residents to transition seamlessly from independent living to higher levels of support if needed, often without leaving the community. (Be sure to do your research on the types of care available along the continuum.)

Research also suggests that older adults living in organized retirement communities may experience better health outcomes. Research conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago found that older adults in senior housing receive more preventive care, rehabilitation services, and overall support (as compared to those living in the general population), all of which contribute to improved wellness and healthier aging.

Additionally, planning ahead with a proactive move to a senior living community like a CCRC can reduce the burden on adult children. Without a plan in place, families are often forced to make urgent decisions during a health crisis, which can be emotionally and financially stressful. Reframing your mindset from “Do I need this now?” to “What might I need in 5 to 10 years?” can lead to more practical and empowering senior living decisions.

A broader perspective: Timing matters more than you think

Every senior living option has potential advantages and drawbacks. For instance, aging at home offers familiarity, while active adult communities emphasize lifestyle and independence. Independent living communities reduce maintenance responsibilities and provide social opportunities.

However, CCRCs stand out from many other choices for a key reason: They combine lifestyle, housing, and healthcare into a single long-term senior living solution. This integrated approach can simplify decision-making over time and provide a greater sense of security.

But timing is one of the most overlooked aspects of a senior living decision. Many people wait until their early 80s to move to a retirement community, often after a triggering event such as a fall or illness. Yet moving earlier, while still active and independent, offers several advantages:

Greater choice of communities, contract types, and housing options
Easier physical and emotional transition
More time to build friendships and social connections
Access to wellness programs that may help maintain health longer

In other words, CCRCs are not just about care; they are about maintaining independence, nurturing a sense of community, and proactively planning for peace of mind.

From delay to deliberate decision

The psychology behind delaying a senior living move is understandable. It’s a major life decision that involves financial considerations, emotional attachments, and uncertainty about the future. But senior living decisions don’t have to be so stressful.

By exploring your options early, asking the right questions, and evaluating both current and possible future needs, older adults and their loved ones can make more informed and confident choices. The goal isn’t simply to choose where to live; it’s to create a plan that supports autonomy, health, dignity, and quality of life for years to come.

If you or a loved one is beginning to think about senior living options, now may be the ideal time to start the conversation … not because you have to move today, but because planning ahead will give you the most choices for your future.

Original post date: November 25, 2019; updated April 13, 2026

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